SOUTH BEND Shoppers braved Saturday's frigid temperatures for a taste of spring at the Farmer's Market Winter Festival. Vendors who are usually absent -- primarily antique dealers -- from the 100-stall market during the winter months made an appearance for the annual event, along with the many merchants who regularly greet customers week after week at 1105 Northside Boulevard in South Bend. "I'm surprised with how many (shoppers) that have already been through today," said Kay Soule, the Farmer's Market office manager. "We've had hundreds already." Whether they were drawn by the fresh produce, a hot breakfast or unique finds, the popular weeklong event -- to be held again on March 14, 16 and 18 -- is a favorite attraction for many in Michiana. "I've seen a lot of people I don't normally see," said Candy Samuels of Lady's Suds, who visited with shoppers from among her display of colorful lamps, Victorian dolls and baskets of scented soaps. Toni Truex traveled from Elkhart to take part in the festivities and was rewarded, going home with a handful of soaps from Lady's Suds.